Overview
One of the most famous Uttarakhandi monsoon treks, Valley of Flowers exudes a sense of epic by its name. Trekking here feels like you have been teleported to another world. This is a beautiful trek but on the other hand, it is also one of the most challenging treks.
You will need to trek through rugged terrains which will limit your speed and you need proper planning to do the Valley of Flowers trek. This trek will make you push your limits and fight all the challenges you might face during the trek. The stunning views you will get during the trek are worth all the challenges you might face. You can also capture some amazing pictures while trekking and carry beautiful memories.
Mumbai to Rishikesh
I travelled from Mumbai to Delhi on the Rajdhani Express and my ride was eventless. I boarded another train from Delhi to Haridwar and on my way, I got to know that Roorkie and Deoband also come in the same way.
The landscapes transformed into serene and welcoming sub-Himalayan terrains from dusty and crowded Indian plains.
In Haridwar, I visited the entire place in a big autorickshaw in which 10-15 people can fit. I booked that auto all for myself by paying 100 rupees. I reach Rishikesh in around 30 minutes, and the driver of an autorickshaw. I reached Rishikesh and then checked into my hotel I asked the same auto driver if he could take me sightseeing.
I visited the Lakshman Jhoola and Ram Jhoola. The driver, a guide, told me to cross the bridge and see some temples.
Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Chamoli – Joshimath – Govind Ghat
Located at the foothills of beautiful mountains, Rishikesh is a peaceful place. From Rishikesh, I booked a shared cab and left for Rudraprayag. The road was bumpy because it took a lot of time to reach the destination. After reaching there, I checked into my hotel and relaxed for some time. The room was so comfortable and the views of Akalnanda and Mandakini from the balcony were mesmerizing. I got to have some amazing views of beautiful mountains the next morning.
On the next day from Rudraprayag, I planned to reach Joshimat, but it became so challenging for me as I missed all the morning buses leaving for Joshimath. Then, local people suggested heading toward Chamoli, and the bus tickets were also affordable. So, I booked the bus and started my journey toward Chamoli and enjoyed the views of beautiful landscapes on my way.
I booked a hotel in Chamoli for the night and the next morning I took the bus to reach Joshimath which is a bustling town and has many local shops and restaurants.
I did not spend too much time in Joshimath and left for Govind Ghat which was the last spot on my route. Govind Ghat is a charming place that is also a translation point going for the Valley of Flowers trek. The weather was perfect, and I got a great hotel at a reasonable price.
Govind Ghat to Ganglia
My actual ascent started from Govind Ghat. From there, I had to hike up to Ghangaria. Two major spots for tourists to visit are the Hemkund Sahib, and the Valley of Flowers trek. The trek to Ghangaria from Govind Ghat is around 13 km long. This was a five-hour-long journey.
There were small shacks offering water bottles, chocolates, drinks, and biscuits. I reached Ghangaria in the afternoon and then went to a hotel to get some rest.
This place is developed in a way that can support the regular flow of people going to Hemkund Sahib or Valley of Flowers. There are so many budget-friendly hotels, and I also took amazing pictures as well.
Around 100 meters away from the market, you will reach an open lush green area from where one path will take you toward the Valley of Flowers trek, and another will take you to Hemkund.
Valley of Flowers – the final destination
The next morning I reached my final destination “Valley of Flowers” which is a part of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage site as well.
This trek can be done easily by experienced trekkers but it can be a bit challenging for people who are not fit and don’t have prior trekking experience.
On my way, I got to see lively streams, beautiful pine trees, the legend of Sleepy Hollow, and many more beautiful things. This place is full of flora and fauna and I got to see amazing jaw-dropping views. I captured so many beautiful pictures while trekking. It was an amazing experience.
The way back
I spent a few hours there and then it was time for a descent, it was eventless and smooth. I booked a real horse the next morning. I reached Govind Ghat, but it was getting boring for me to repeat the same, so I chose to walk toward Joshimath, which was a 16 km stretch.
I realized my mistake after walking for a few kilometres, so I took the lift and reached Joshimath by 8:30. After this entire journey, I managed to wake up early in the morning as I had to take a bus to Haridwar the next morning.
Best time to visit Valley of Flowers
Valley of Flowers is a monsoon trek and the ideal time to visit is from mid-June to mid-September. I was there in August and this place left me mesmerized by its beauty.
This is a great place with a variety of flora and fauna. While trekking during this season, I got to have the best views of the valley which was in full bloom. During August the valley of flowers is in full bloom.
Rishikesh to Valley of Flowers distance
I started my journey from Rishikesh, which is 310 km away from the valley of flowers. From Rishikesh, I took a cab to reach Govind Ghat, which is just 290 km away. This journey took 10-12 hours and during this scenic drive, I got to see stunning views of beautiful towns Joshimath and Devprayag. I started my 14 km trek to the base camp for this trek, ghangaria. Then, from Ghangaria, I started trekking towards the valley. The views were breathtaking, which made my trek worthwhile.
Where to stay
When I visited the Valley of Flowers I chose Ghangaria as accommodation, which is 3 km away from the valley.
There are so many budget-friendly guest houses and hotels. Staying in Ghangaria is the best option because camping in the Valley of Flowers is not allowed. I booked the stay in advance because I went there during the peak season and it may be difficult to find a stay during this time. You can also find accommodation in Govind Ghat, which is the starting point of the Valley of Flowers trek.
More details about the route I took
I travelled from Mumbai to Delhi on the Rajdhani Express, and my ride was eventless.
I boarded another train from Delhi to Haridwar, and then from Haridwar, I took an auto to reach Rishikesh, which took around 30 minutes.
Located at the foothills of beautiful mountains, Rishikesh is a peaceful place. From Rishikesh, I was supposed to leave for Joshimath but unfortunately, I missed all the morning buses so local people there suggested I take a bus to Chamoli first. Then from Chamoli, I took a bus toward Joshimath and then to Govindghat.
My trek started from Govindghat to Ghangaria which was also the base camp for this trek. Then from Ghangaria, I enjoyed my Valley of Flowers trek.
FAQ’s
Q1. how many days are enough for the Valley of Flowers trek?
For your Valley of Flowers trek from Delhi, 6-7 days are enough.
Q2. what is the best time for the Valley of Flowers trek?
The ideal time for the Valley of Flowers trek is from June to September.
Q3. what transport facility can I use to travel?
Trains and buses are available to reach Haridwar from Delhi. After reaching Haridwar, most of the travel will be by car or bus.
Q4. Should I get a guide for the trek?
There is no need for a guide for this trek but if you think you need one then you can get a guide from Joshimath.
Author’s bio
Priyanshu is someone who loves to take challenges and go on treks. They have hiked in many high places, including the Valley of Flowers trek. Priyanshu has a special connection with trekking and travelling, and they want to share their experience with others. They write about their adventures, give helpful tips, and tell stories about the Valley of Flowers trek, making it interesting for people who enjoy adventure and nature.
